so much new technolgy with chart plotters XM radio real time weather overlays, laptopcomputers and wireless internet connections... are we now entering a transition from the old technology for our boats to a new set of standards... what do you think and see out there that is state of the art...!!

The state of the art, as witnessed at the Miami show is 'integration'. Look for new products that combine inputs and present the data in a way that multiplies the usefulness and reliability of the individual inputs. Radar, weather, and AIS overlays are an example, and recent products have managed to stuff several components into a single box.

Fears of a loss of redundancy should go away since most problems in electronics are outside the box; the cabling and interfacing required to bring all the old stuff together was the cause of most problems. Since most people carry backup handhelds (which are now being integrated too) we are having the best of redundancy, a backup that is completely independant of the principle system, including power and antennas.

It's mind bogling what's available to spend your money on nowadays!
I can tell you that when flying, xm weather is absolutely amazing! Personally, I'm not sure it would be worth the $50/month extra for sailing, reports being available (fax, radio) and not much ability to move that much that quickly anyway. But absolutely amazing to watch the little lightening X come on almost with the flash!